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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director added.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.